Energy unit with safe and stable hydrogen storage

ABSTRACT

An energy unit in accordance with an embodiment of the present application stores at least water and hydrogen. The energy unit includes an electrolysis component operable to provide hydrogen from the water, a hydrogen storage component operable to safely and stably store hydrogen in sold form and a fuel cell component operable to produce electricity from the hydrogen. The energy unit may be grouped with other like energy units to provide constant power for desired applications.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This is a continuation of commonly-assigned U.S. patent application Ser.No. 13/232,344 filed Feb. 28, 2012 entitled ENERGY UNIT WITH SAFE ANDSTABLE HYDROGEN STORAGE which claims benefit of and priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/447,571 filed Feb. 28, 2011entitled ENERGY UNIT WITH SAFE AND STABLE HYDROGEN STORAGE, the entirecontent of each which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Disclosure

The present disclosure relates generally to energy, and, moreparticularly, to a power source capable of providing electricity inremote locations. In particular, the present application relates to anenergy unit that provides safe and stable storage of hydrogen for use inmaking electricity.

2. Description of the Related Art

Producing electricity from hydrogen is known. In known applications, anelectrolyzer is used for producing a source of hydrogen from water. Asknown in the art, hydrogen and oxygen are produced by electrolysis ofwater. A water electrolysis reaction occurs when sufficient energy isapplied to break the water's oxygen-hydrogen-bond.

As known in the art, electrolysis includes an electrochemical processinvolving the decomposition of an electrolyte. During electrolysis, anelectrolyte decomposes, for example, when an external DC voltage isapplied to two electrodes, i.e., an anode and a cathode, which are incontact with the electrolyte. The voltage equals or exceeds a thresholdvalue, which, depending upon the particular electrolyte, causes theelectrolyte to decompose and the hydrogen-water bond to break. Theminimum voltage necessary to decompose the electrolyte is referred to asthe “decomposition voltage.” Water may also be electrolyzed using otherprocesses, such as a photosynthetic process, for example.

Furthermore and as known in the art, some proton exchange-membrane(“PEM”) electrolyzers enable the production of hydrogen and oxygenthrough the electrolysis of water. PEM electrolyzers include electrolytematerial, which includes a proton-conducting polymer membrane. When themembrane becomes wet, sulfonic acid attached thereto detaches, and themembrane becomes acidic and proton-conducting. Protons, i.e., positivelycharged hydrogen ions, pass through the membrane, while anions, i.e.,negatively charged ions, do not pass through the membrane.

Thus and as known in the art, PEM electrolyzers separate pure water intohydrogen and oxygen when a DC voltage is applied to electrodes (i.e.,cathode and anode) provided with the PEM electrolyzers. When the DCvoltage exceeds the decomposition voltage, the electrolyzer splits purewater into hydrogen and oxygen. Other techniques for separating waterinto hydrogen and oxygen are known. Also and as known in the art, fuelcell technology allows the use of hydrogen as fuel to produceelectricity. For example, hydrogen collected as a function of PEMelectrolyzers is used in fuel cells. Moreover, several individual fuelcells are combinable in a unit, referred to in the art as a “fuel cellstack.” A fuel cell stack is desirable to achieve an appreciable outputvoltage and/or current. Thus, in order to achieve appreciable outputvoltages, several individual fuel cells must be combined in a unitcalled a fuel cell stack.

Adjacent fuel cells can be connected by a separator, which may be formedas a plate. The plate is operable to provide electrical connectionsbetween the respective fuel cells. Also, the plates can provide a gastransport towards and away from the respective fuel cells. Further heatthat is produced by the respective fuel cells can be dissipated by theseparator plate. Moreover, adjacent cells can be sealed by the separatorplate, thereby preventing fuel and oxidant leakage.

In some known embodiments, plates are attached to the ends of a fuelcell stack. The plates are operable to electrically connect one or moreexternal circuits and can also provide connections for gas flow. Due toproduction of heat, one or more fuel stack may be further provided withcooling, including by air or water.

In known hydrogen-based fuel cells, electrical production occurs as afunction of hydrogen atoms contacting the plate, effectively takingelectrons from the hydrogen atoms and producing free electrons. Hydrogengenerally exists in nature as di-hydrogen (H²) molecules. Every twodi-hydrogen molecules (2H²) include 4 hydrogen protons and 4 freeelectrons of potential energy (4H⁺+4e⁻). Further and as known, oxygenatoms are attracted to the positively charged hydrogen protons (4H⁺) dueto the lone pair of electrons on the outer shell of oxygen. Oxygenexists in nature as di-oxygen (O²) molecules. The oxygen atoms bond withthe hydrogen protons, thereby producing atoms of water and leaving thefree electrons, thereby generating electricity(4H⁺+4e⁻+O²->4H⁺+O²+4e⁻->2H²O+4e−). Other techniques for providingelectricity using hydrogen are known as well.

Also in known embodiments, a respective number of individual fuel cellsdetermines a particular output voltage. The cells are electricallyconnected in series, such that the addition or subtraction of a fuelincreases or decreases the output voltage, respectively. As known, thetotal output voltage is determined by the sum of the each fuel cell'soutput voltage.

Further, it is known to store hydrogen as a metal hydride, for example,in the crystal lattice of certain metals or metal alloys. As known inthe art, an exothermic (heat producing) reaction occurs when hydrogenbonds to the metal (or alloy) to form a metal hydride, and the hydrogenis stored. By applying heat to a metal hydride, the hydrogen isreleasable and, thereafter, usable in a fuel cell. Alternatively,hydrogen may be released from the metal hydride using negative airpressure or application of a low electrical current.

Storing hydrogen as a metal hydride would be preferred way to storehydrogen, as it is believed to be safer and easier to handle. Further, asmall volume of metal hydride is operable to store a considerable amountof hydrogen and sufficient to provide a considerable amount of fuel toproduce electricity. However, a known shortcoming of storing metalhydride for the production of electricity is that the energy storagedensity per mass is low and, therefore, the storage tanks areconsiderably heavy. Further, storing hydrogen in metal hydridesgenerally also requires high pressure to force the hydrogen atoms intothe crystalline structure of the metal. A relative lower pressure isnecessary to maintain the hydrogen in the metal hydride, typically450-800 psi, however, even this relatively low storage pressure is toohigh to be considered safe. Thus high-pressure operation raises the samesafety issues discussed above with respect to high-pressure storage ofhydrogen gas.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide an energy unit that avoidsthe above problems related to high pressure operation, safety,efficiency and other problems.

SUMMARY

In a preferred embodiment, an energy unit is disclosed that stores waterand hydrogen. The energy unit includes an electrical source, which maybe incorporated into the material of the unit itself, if desired, thatprovides electricity for operating in a first mode to produce hydrogenfrom the water. This hydrogen is safely and stably stored in a solidform in the energy unit in a second mode. In a third mode, the hydrogenis used to make electricity.

An energy unit in accordance with an embodiment of the presentdisclosure includes a housing, a power source mounted in or on thehousing and configured to provide electricity, a fluid chamber in thehousing configured to hold a volume of fluid, an electrolysis element inthe housing electrically connected to the power source and in fluidcommunication with the fluid chamber, the electrolysis chamberconfigured and operable to break the fluid down and to provide hydrogengas, a hydrogen storage element in the housing connected to theelectrolysis element and configured to store hydrogen in solid form anda fuel cell in the housing, connected to the hydrogen storage elementand operable to generate electricity using at least hydrogen suppliedfrom the hydrogen storage element.

An energy system in accordance with an embodiment of the presentdisclosure includes a plurality of energy units, each energy unitincluding a housing, a power source mounted in or on the housing andconfigured to provide electricity, a fluid chamber in the housingconfigured to hold a volume of fluid, an electrolysis element in thehousing electrically connected to the power source and in fluidcommunication with the fluid chamber, the electrolysis chamberconfigured and operable to break the fluid down and to provide hydrogengas, a hydrogen storage element in the housing connected to theelectrolysis element and configured to store hydrogen in solid form; anda fuel cell in the housing, connected to the hydrogen storage elementand operable to generate electricity using at least hydrogen suppliedfrom the hydrogen storage element. Each energy unit is connected with atleast one other energy unit such that multiple energy units operatetogether to provide electricity at a desired voltage or current.

Other features and advantages will become apparent from the followingdescription that refers to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the purpose of illustration, there is shown in the drawings a form,which is presently preferred, it being understood, however, that theinvention is not limited to the precise arrangements andinstrumentalities shown. The features and advantages of the teachingsherein will become apparent from the following description that refersto the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective front and top view of an energy unit inaccordance with an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 2 is a perspective rear and bottom view of the energy cell in FIG.1;

FIG. 3 is cross sectional view of the energy cell as illustrated in FIG.2;

FIG. 4 is a more detailed view of a hydrogen storage component of theenergy cell illustrated in FIGS. 1-3;

FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of the hydrogen storage componentillustrated in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a more detailed view of the conical ram head structureincluded in the hydrogen storage component of FIGS. 4-5; and

FIG. 7 illustrates a more detailed view of a drying device of the energycell in accordance with an embodiment of the present application.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

In accordance with the various embodiments described and illustratedherein, a portable and extremely durable energy source is provided thatfunctions independently to produce, for example, electricity. Referringto the drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to likeelements, there is shown in FIG. 1 a front and top view of the energysource in the form of energy unit 10. FIG. 2 illustrates a rear andbottom view of the energy unit while FIG. 3 illustrates a crosssectional view thereof. In the examples illustrated and describedherein, hydrogen is the preferred fuel used by the energy unit 10 toprovide electricity. It is envisioned herein, however, that alternativechemicals and/or elements may be used as fuel for electricity withoutdeparting from the spirit of the teachings herein. Thus, the energy unit10 of the present application is not limited to use with water. Whilehydrogen will be used for transport of electrons, however, the method ofelectrolysis may vary. For example, the electron source, which is wateras described above, may alternatively be a bio fuel.

In a preferred embodiment, the energy unit 10 is provided in arectangular brick-shape, as illustrated in FIG. 1, for example. An outerframe 8 is provided in which a hydrogen storage component 20,electrolysis component 30 and fuel cell component 40 are provided. Asillustrated, the side panels 11, fastened to the frame 8 are preferablymade of a clear, transparent, or translucent material, such as LUCITE,for example. The rectangular shape is preferred, however alternativeshapes may be used, including but not limited to triangles, spheres,cones, cylinders and pyramids. The energy unit 10 is preferablyconfigured and structured such that multiple units may be stacked, orotherwise combined together, physically and/or functionally. Indeed, aplurality of the energy units 10 may be stacked together and included ina structure such as a wall or building.

Moreover, the individual units 10 may be stacked and interconnected tocreate a larger and more powerful energy source. The units may beconnected in parallel, for example to provide a larger voltage, or inseries, to generally provide for increased amperage. Interconnection maybe provided by simply mating two of the units 10 together. In oneembodiment, studs 12 are provided on one end of the unit 10 andreceptacle portions 14 (See FIG. 1-2) to receive studs 12 from anotherunit are provided at another end of units 10. The fuel cell component 40preferably includes a plurality of fuel cells in the form of a fuelstack such as that discussed above.

The energy unit 10 also includes a water chamber 50 configured andoperable to hold a volume of water or other fluid. In a preferredembodiment, the unit 10 holds approximately 1.1 liters of water, intotal. It is noted, however, that the energy unit 10 may be scaledupward or downward based on use and more or less water may beaccommodated as desired.

This volume of water is used by the electrolysis component 30 to providea supply of hydrogen. The electrolysis component 30 includes or isconnected to a voltage source 60 that provides sufficient current to theelectrolysis component 30 to separate water into hydrogen and oxygengas.

In a preferred embodiment, the voltage source 60 is a solar poweredvoltage source. Thus, sunlight is converted to electricity, for example,using a photovoltaic cell (not shown). In a preferred embodiment, thevoltage source 60 includes mono-crystalline silica solar cells that areprovided on the sides of unit 10. In an embodiment, solar cells may beimpregnated in the panels 11, for example, as shown in FIG. 1. Solarpower technology that uses solar cells or solar photovoltaic arrays ispreferably provided to convert energy from the sun into electricity. Theelectricity produced from the sunlight is used by a PEM (or other)electrolyzer within the electrolysis component 30 to separate hydrogenfrom pure water or from other sources. While it is preferred that thewater be pure, it is not necessary as long as the water does not includedissolved solids. Therefore, hydrogen gas is produced from pure water asa function of electrolysis. The hydrogen is later converted intoelectricity, for example, using one or more fuel cells in the fuel cellcomponent 40, in which the hydrogen is recombined with oxygen to produceelectricity. If desired, the separated oxygen from the water may also becollected and used by the fuel cell component 40, for example to makeelectricity, or for any other desired use. For example, in a preferredembodiment, the separated oxygen may be used to purify water. The oxygenmay be used to kill bacteria, for example, to purify water for drinking.The oxygen may also be used for medical purposes, for example,supplemental oxygen for breathing. The oxygen may also be used tosterilize other items such as cooking or medical instruments, forexample. The oxygen may also be used to aid in air purification. Whilethe electricity provided by solar power using voltage source 60 ispreferably used for electrolysis, it may be used simply to provideelectrical power for other devices, as well.

Thus, in a first mode, the energy unit 10 operates to collect hydrogenfor eventual conversion to electricity using the electrolysis component30. In a preferred embodiment, unit 10 does not operate to collecthydrogen and provide electricity simultaneously. That is, the unit 10only operates in one mode at a time.

After the hydrogen gas is generated, it is preferably stored in a secondmode. Hydrogen storage can be a difficult feat given the inherentdangers of storing any large amount of a flammable gas at pressure. Oneof the advantages provided by the energy unit 10 of the presentapplication, however, is that hydrogen is stored in solid form safelyand stably, as is explained in detail below. While the hydrogen isgenerally stored in order to provide electricity, the hydrogen may beused for other purposes as well. For example, the hydrogen may be usedas fuel for cooking or heat, if desired. Further, the hydrogen may beused directly, prior to storage, if desire. In one embodiment, thehydrogen that is provided using the electrolysis component 30 is passedthrough drying device 70. FIG. 7 illustrates the device 70 with the topcap thereof hidden. The drying device 70 includes a column of waterthrough which the separated hydrogen gas from the electrolysis device 30passes. Water may be provided via nozzle 75, for example. The hydrogenmay be provided through the nozzle 74, on the bottom of the device 70,for example. By bubbling the hydrogen gas through the column of water inthe drying device 70, moisture is removed from the hydrogen. That is,any water vapor included in the hydrogen gas will tend to bond with thewater molecules as the gas bubbles through the water in the dryingdevice 70. In addition, a membrane 72 provided at a top of the device 70and is made of a material that allows hydrogen to pass through, however,prevents water vapor from passing through. Thus, by the time theseparated hydrogen gas passes through the drying device 70 it has a verylow percentage of water vapor, and thus, can be considered “dry.” Inaddition, a desiccant material may also be included to assist in dryingthe hydrogen. Such dry hydrogen is easier to store in solid form.Hydrogen preferably leaves the device 70 via nozzle 76.

In one embodiment, the drying device 70 may include an aerator throughwhich the hydrogen gas passes prior to being stored. The aerator is madeof, or includes a zinc catalyst that removes any oxygen gas that may beincluded in the hydrogen gas. The aerator may be included in the device70, or outside the device 70 between the device and the hydrogen storagedevice 20. Pure hydrogen is easier to store in solid form than hydrogenthat includes some oxygen mixed therein. The aerator serves to eliminateany remaining oxygen from the hydrogen.

FIG. 4 illustrates a more detailed view of the hydrogen storagecomponent 20 that is preferably provided in the energy unit 10. In fact,as can be seen in FIGS. 1-3, there are preferably two hydrogen storagecomponents 20 provided in the unit 10. Additional or fewer hydrogenstorage components 20, however, may be used.

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment ofthe hydrogen storage component 20. In a preferred embodiment, an outercylindrical cover 21 is provided around an outer perimeter of thecomponent 20. An outer liner 22 made of a somewhat stiff material isprovided inside the outer cover 21. A metal hydride material 23 isprovided inside the outer liner 22. The metal hydride material 23 is asolid material that absorbs the hydrogen gas to provide safe and stablestorage. An inner liner 24 is provided on the inner surface of the metalhydride material 23. The material of the inner liner 24 is configuredand structured to be flexible and to allow the hydrogen gas to passfreely into the metal hydride 23. A hydrogen gap 25 is provided betweenthe inner liner 24 and a conically shaped ram head 26 mounted in acenter of the component 20. The ram head has a central axis Hsubstantially aligned with a central axis of the component 20. Asolenoid 27 is connected to the ram head 26 via an actuator 27 a, whichis movable up and down at a desired frequency. The ram head 26 thusmoves up and down at the same desired frequency. The gap 25 is filledwith the hydrogen gas that was provided by the electrolysis component 30and enters the component 20 via nozzle 29, for example. In a preferredembodiment, check valves may be provided at hydrogen entry and exitpoints to avoid backpressure and to prevent air from being drawn intothe camber. The small pressure variations provided by the solenoid aidin pushing the hydrogen into the hydrides during the compression strokeand will avoid a vacuum form drawing air into the chamber during therelease stroke.

The movement of the solenoid 27 and the ram head 26 attached theretoprovides two advantages. First, the frequency at which the solenoid 27moves is set such that it is resonant with a frequency of the metalhydride material 23. This frequency will vary depending on theparticular material and the relative amount provided. The resonancerelationship, however, results in vibration in the crystalline latticeof the metal hydride 23. The resonant vibration increases theopportunity or the number of chances the hydrogen has to attach to thelattice. As a result, it is easier for hydrogen to fit into the latticewithout the need to apply high pressure. The movement to the ram head 26also physically pushes hydrogen in the gap 25 toward the metal hydridematerial 23. That is, the percussive force of the moving ram head 26repeatedly drives the hydrogen into the loosened crystalline structureof the metal hydride 23. The result is hydrogen absorption into themetal hydride 23 at low pressure. As noted above, the inner liner 24 ismade of a material that allows the hydrogen to easily pass through itand into the metal hydride material 23. This material is also flexibleto accommodate the increased volume of the material 23 after it absorbshydrogen.

In this manner, a large volume of hydrogen can be safely stored in solidform in the metal hydride material 23. In addition, as is mentionedabove, it is generally easier to store “dry” hydrogen in solid form.Thus, the dry hydrogen provided in the energy unit 10 is generallyeasier to store in solid form. No other hydrogen based power sourceprovides these unique features to allow for safe and stable storage ofhydrogen in solid form or for solid state storage at low pressures.

While the present application describes the use of a solenoid 27 toprovide the movement of the ram head 26, other alternatives may be used.For example, a piezoelectric material may be used in place of thesolenoid 27. Such materials provide very high frequency vibration when avoltage is applied, typically in the range of 50-20,000 Hz. Theamplitude of the movement, however, is very small. The exact amplitudewill vary based on the size of the diaphragm used. In contrast, thesolenoid 27 provides for operation at a frequency from about 60 Hz-2500Hz with a displacement of the ram head 26 less than that of thesolenoid. Alternatively, a relatively high frequency vibration may beprovided by a small motor, such as those used to make items such as cellphones vibrate. These devices typically vibrate at a higher frequencythan a solenoid, typically around 60-10,000 Hz, however, much lower thana piezoelectric material. The amplitude of the vibration is also largerthan the piezoelectric material, but smaller than a solenoid. While thesolenoid is preferred, any vibrating element may be used in the hydrogenstorage component 20.

In another embodiment, the solenoid 27 and ram head 26 may be mounted ina flexible cup-shaped cap assembly (not shown) mounted in the hydrogengap 25. The cap assembly preferably includes a lower portion generallywith a bottom and sidewalls extending upward therefrom toward a topportion with a flange extending outward perpendicularly. The lowerportion of the cap assembly is cylindrical in shape. The cap assemblyprovides for a physical separation between the hydrogen in the gap 25and the ram head 26 and solenoid 27. This provides additional safety asthe flammable hydrogen is separated further from the electricallyoperated solenoid 27. In addition, the cap assembly reduces the size ofthe hydrogen gap 25 such that the component 20 will operate to storehydrogen in the metal hydride with a lower volume of hydrogen in thegap. As the ram head 26 vibrates, the volumetric pressure in the lowerportion of the cap assembly changes, which results in the sidewalls ofthe cap assembly vibrating. This vibration provides for both theresonance interaction with the material 23 and the percussive forcedriving the hydrogen in the gap 25 surrounding the sidewalls into themetal hydride material, which also surrounds the lower portion of thecap assembly. In one embodiment, the lower portion of the cap assemblyis filled with a substantially incompressible fluid, such as water, forexample. This embodiment provides good control of the change involumetric pressure provided by the vibration of the solenoid 27. Usingwater on the opposite side of the hydrogen storage allows for greaterpressure since hydraulic pressure is generally more efficient. Since airis a compressible fluid, some of the displacement is merely absorbed bythe air. In contrast, in a hydraulic system, since water is anincompressible fluid displacement is more efficient.

In a third mode, hydrogen is released from storage in the metal hydride23 and provided to the fuel cell component 40 to provide electricity. Asnoted above, the metal hydride material 23 is stored between an outerliner 22 and an inner liner 24. The inner lined is made of a materialthat is relatively permeable to hydrogen gas and flexible to accommodatethe expanding volume of the material 23 as it absorbs hydrogen. Theouter liner 22 is preferably fairly stiff. The material of the innerliner 24, however, is also relatively elastic, such that it tends toreturn to its original shape after the pressure of the hydrogen gas inthe gap 25 falls below a certain point, and thus, hydrogen stopsentering the material 23. The pressure in the chamber during storagerises to about 80 psi. When the outlet of the chamber is opened, forexample via nozzle 29 a, this pressure drops and hydrogen is releasedfrom the hydride 23. The pressure exerted by the flexible material ofthe liner 24 also aids in hydrogen release as well. The releasedhydrogen is then provided to the fuel cell component 40, via nozzle 29a, for example, of component 20.

FIG. 6 illustrates a more detailed view of the ram head 26. Asillustrated, the ram head 26 has a conical structure, which maximizesits surface area contact with hydrogen in the gap 25. The conical shapeis further useful to sculpt the pressure wave, directing it to the topand bottom of the storage container. In addition, vertical ribs 21 a areprovided to divide the gap 25 into compartments to further maximize thepercussive force of the ram head 26. The metal hydride material 23 maysimilarly be divided into component pieces for positioning in thecompartments.

The hydrogen released from the metal hydride material 23 is provided tothe fuel cell component 40, which uses it to produce electricity usingany of a plurality of known techniques. The hydrogen may be used forother purposes as well, for example, the hydrogen may be burned directlyto provide heat or for cooking. In a preferred embodiment, the fuel cellcomponent 40 includes several individual fuel cells combined in a unit.As is noted above, this grouping of fuel cells is generally referred toas a “fuel cell stack” as is noted above. The use of the fuel stack isdesirable to achieve an appreciable output voltage and/or current. Eachfuel cell preferably includes a metal plate that may be constructed of ahard metal, such as platinum, that may operate as the protonexchange-membrane during electrolysis as well. That is, in oneembodiment, elements of the electrolysis component 30 and the fuel cellcomponent 40 may be combined or shared. That is, in an embodiment theelectrolysis component 30 and the fuel cell component 40 may be combinedinto a single component. Such a component may be referred to as areversible fuel cell. The combined component combines hydrogen andoxygen to provide electricity (and water), and is also operable toseparate water into hydrogen and oxygen when electricity is providedfrom the power source 60, for example.

During the production of electricity using the fuel cell component 40,pure water is a natural byproduct, and the water remains in the energyunit 10 for future use during electrolysis. Thus, in accordance with apreferred embodiment, energy unit 10 collects sunlight using powersource 60 and converts the sunlight to electricity. That electricity isused to convert water to hydrogen during electrolysis. This hydrogen isthen stored in solid form for later use in making electricity using thefuel cell component 40.

The energy unit 10, however, is not completely efficient such that itmay be necessary to add water or other materials, such as metal hydridematerial at times. During the production of electricity, for example,some water may not condense to be used for the production of hydrogenduring electrolysis, and instead may escape. Accordingly, pure water maybe added to unit 10 in order to restore the unit's efficiency and toincrease electricity production and the longevity of unit 10. Inaddition, it may be necessary to repair or replace other components, aswell. While the hydride material is not consumed, it may clump due toimpurities, and thus, may need to be replaced. Thus, the interior of theenergy unit is preferably accessible, at least by removal of the panels11, for example.

In one embodiment, as noted above, receptacle portions 14 are providedwithin unit 10. Preferably, studs 12 are slightly larger in diameterthan that of receptacle portions 14. When two units 10 are pressedtogether, the studs 12 are received by the receptacle portions 14, andthe studs 12 are essentially pressed into and around the receptacleportions 14. The receptacle portions 14 are preferably fashioned with aresilient material, such that portions of receptacle 14 press againstthe studs 12. Thus, friction prevents two hydrogen fuel energy units 100from coming apart. Alternatively, or in addition, other fasteningdevices such as the fasteners 15 illustrated is FIG. 1 may be used tolink units together.

In a preferred embodiment, some of the studs 12 and receptacles 14 areformed of a conductive material and operate as electric contact points,either between energy units 10 or to exterior electric loads. In apreferred embodiment, the polarity of the studs 12 and receptacles 14may be altered as desired to allow a plurality of units to be connectedin series, thereby increasing the overall voltage output. Alternatively,a plurality of units 10 can be connected in parallel, thereby increasingthe overall amperage. The studs may also be provided to for transport ofwater or hydrogen between units 10. In addition, so-called dummy studsmay be provided, which do not provide for communication between unitsbut merely provide structural support in the connection between units.

A polarity alteration member is preferably included in stud 12.Preferably, stud 12 is provided such that a user can alter polarity bysimply pressing and turning stud 12 in a respective position. Forexample, turning stud 12 in clockwise rotation selects a negativepolarity, while turning stud 12 in a counter-clockwise rotation selectsa positive polarity. Alternative embodiments are envisioned herein. Forexample, stud 12 is provided with a first end and a second end, and stud12 may be removable. In this alternative embodiment, a respectivepolarity may be selected by the user inserting a respective end (i.e.,first end or second end) into receptacle portion 14. In yet anotheralternative embodiment, a switching member may be provided with stud 12and/or receptacle 14 that enables a user to select a respectivepolarity.

Enabling a user to switch polarity is a significant feature of theteachings herein as it enables a user to operate a plurality of hydrogenfuel energy units 100 in series or in parallel. Thus, such as batteries(e.g., AAA batteries, AA batteries or the like) in a respective batterycompartment, units 100 can operate in series or in parallel.

In one embodiment, the studs 12 may also be used for transport of waterbetween linked energy units 10, as noted above. In one embodiment, oneof the studs 12 is used as a pass through to allow water to pass fromone energy unit to another. Two other studs 12 may be used in order toadjust water pressure in the grouping of units. Similarly, for thoserods that are electrically conductive, one stud 12 may be used as a passthrough for electricity between energy units while two other studs 12may include the polarity adjustment features discussed above to allowfor linking the units 10 in series and parallel. While, the aboveembodiment is described with reference to a total of 6 rods, more orfewer rods may be used. For example, FIGS. 1-3 illustrates eight studs12. The corresponding receptacles 14 are preferably modified asappropriate to work as described above with the studs 12.

It is envisioned herein that a plurality of energy units 10 operatesover time to produce significant amounts of electricity. In general, itis believed that there is an optimal 2.5:1 to 3:1 ratio of time requiredfor producing hydrogen (e.g., during electrolysis) to the time in whichelectricity, as in line voltage, is provided. For example, four and onehalf hours of collecting sunlight and producing hydrogen results in,generally, one hour of converting the hydrogen to electricity as anelectrical supply. Of course, one skilled in the art will recognize thatvarious environmental and/or external factors may affect thisperformance ratio. For example, in case sunlight is not available duringa long stretch of overcast days, or in case unit 100 becomes dirty overtime, the ratio may be much higher, such as 5:1, thereby temporarilydecreasing the overall efficiency of unit 100. As improvements in knownsolar panel technology and fuel cell technology emerge, including withregard to the polymer membrane, the charging efficiency and electricityproduction of fuel cell unit 100 improve.

Thus, in a preferred embodiment, energy unit 10 is preferably groupedwith two other similar units to operate together in order to provide amore or less constant supply of power. In this embodiment, one energyunit 10 will be in the first mode of generating hydrogen by electrolysiswhile a second unit is in the second mode storing hydrogen and the thirdunit is in the third mode and actively generating electricity fromreleased stored hydrogen. The units will then cycle through the modes.It is preferred that the number of energy units 10 grouped together is amultiple of three, such that they can be operated in a staggered mannersimilar to that described above.

In one embodiment, the energy unit 10 is provided with processingcapability, preferably, comprising one or more circuits, switches orprocessors, as known in the art that enables the control for successiveoperation of a plurality of units 10 described above. In anotherembodiment, or in addition, the energy unit 10 may include a simpleswitching mechanism that changes the mode of operation. In oneembodiment, the switching mechanism is a pressure sensitive switch thatsenses when a predefined buildup of hydrogen has been collected, andswitches unit 10 from providing hydrogen to storing hydrogen. Anotherswitch or an additional switch allows transition to theelectricity-providing mode from the hydrogen-storing mode. In analternative embodiment, the switching mechanism recognizes when a waterlevel has reached a predefined position, thereby indicating an amount ofhydrogen has been produced, and switches unit 10 from providing hydrogento storing hydrogen and then to providing electricity using thehydrogen. Therefore, unit 10 preferably alternates between hydrogenproviding, storing and electricity generation mode, and operatesaccordingly as a function of the switch or switches. The switchmechanism may also be actuating by a processor, for example, if desired.

In an embodiment, a switch mechanism that causes unit 10 to operate in ahydrogen providing mode, hydrogen-storing mode or in an electricityproviding mode is formatted as an air pressure switch. As hydrogen isbeing produced, for example, during electrolysis, pressure increases.The pressure increase causes the switch to activate, preferably after apredefined pressure is reached. Thereafter, as pressure reduces as afunction the storing of the hydrogen in the metal hydride, or by use ofhydrogen to provide electricity. Then the switch is again activated andenergy unit 10 reverts to a mode for the production of hydrogen.Providing for pass through of water and electricity between multipleunits links the units such that pressure sensing alone may be used todetermine when switching between modes should occur. These changes mayalso be controlled by a processor, if desired.

It is believed that voltage and amperage is better controlled withhydrogen-based electricity than that provided, for example, fromphotovoltaic processes. By converting hydrogen to electricity, theteachings herein preclude the requirements for additional components,such as rectifiers and other equipment, known in the art as lineconditioning, that may be required for purifying output line voltage. Inother words, the voltage condition is improved as a function of theconverted hydrogen electricity. In addition, the output of theelectricity from the unit 10 may be conditioned or converted, preferablyusing a removable inverter unit.

It is envisioned herein that the solutions provided herein areparticularly useful for hydrogen-powered requirements that havehumanitarian, educational, and commercial value. The energy units 10represent a portable and extremely durable energy source that functionindependently and that also can be stacked and interconnected to createa larger energy source. One example use of the electricity that isproduced by the teachings herein includes running a well in a remotelocation with little supervision. Further, as noted above, the oxygengenerated by the unit 10 may be used to aid in water purification, forexample. Thus, a high technical and sophisticated solution that isrelatively simple to implement can be provided for in low technicalscenarios. One of the benefits of the energy unit 10 of the presentapplication is portability. A large generator may need to bedisassembled and transported in multiple pieces in order to be moved.This introduces the possibility of losing key pieces. In contrast, whenenergy units 10 are used, any combination of units may be bundled toprovide the desired power. No single unit is critical to the operationof the whole.

In another example application and embodiment, an outdoor concert venueis provided that is powered by a plurality of energy units 10. In thisexample embodiment, the components of the system, including solar drivenelectrolysis, hydrogen storage, and fuel cells including transparentpanels 11 allows for the power source to become part of theentertainment and art and draws a new level of attention to thepossibilities. The energy units 10 power many (if not all) elements ofthe venue, including, for example, the stage, lights, concessions, andeven transportation units, such as golf carts. A benefit of theteachings herein is that the electricity is produced in a clean manner,and because the energy units 10 include clear panel 11, educationalbenefits are provided, as well. By bringing energy units 10 to a siteone or more days in advance, solar energy may be used in advance toprovide hydrogen that can be stored safely until used to produce all thehydrogen necessary to supply electricity for the event. The venue may bestationary or mobile, depending upon its size and respectiveapplication. Other applications are envisioned herein, and can rangefrom an individual podium to a large-scaled concert stage.

Further, the PEM fuel cells produce oxygen and water, which providebubbles that contribute to the overall aesthetics. Other aestheticallypleasing features are envisioned, including lighting energy units 10using colored light, lasers or the like. In this way, various aestheticsare provided in addition to environmentally friendly and resourceconservation features.

The electricity production mode of unit 10 is exothermic, whereby heatdissipates from the plate and the water via the membrane, which acts asa vent. Hence, fuel cell unit 10 ventilates heat, which can be directedthrough one or more membranes. The unit 10 produces heat while storinghydrogen and cools off, down to 60 F or so, when generating electricity.Further, fuel cells are provided as energy sources and as windowmaterial. In an embodiment, units 10 are constructable to release heatgenerated during the electricity production phase in a predetermineddirection. Thus, a window comprising one or more fuel cell units 10enable a flow of heat inwardly, thereby heating a structure, such as ahouse, and providing other emergency and humanitarian solutions.Further, the storage unit may be used without the electrolysis unit, forexample, for the production of electricity without noise or heat.

Although the teachings herein are described and shown in relation toparticular embodiments thereof, many other variations and modificationsand other uses will become apparent to those skilled in the art. It ispreferred, therefore, that the present invention be limited not by thespecific disclosure herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. An energy unit comprises: a housing; a power source mounted in or on the housing and configured to provide electricity; a fluid chamber in the housing configured to hold a volume of fluid; an electrolysis element in the housing electrically connected to the power source and in fluid communication with the fluid chamber, the electrolysis chamber configured and operable to break the fluid down and to provide hydrogen gas; a hydrogen storage element in the housing connected to the electrolysis element and configured to store hydrogen in solid form; and a fuel cell in the housing, connected to the hydrogen storage element and operable to generate electricity using at least hydrogen supplied from the hydrogen storage element.
 2. The energy unit of claim 1, wherein the power source is a solar power source configured and operable to provide electricity based on sunlight.
 3. The energy unit of claim 1, wherein the fluid chamber holds water and the electrolysis element is configured to separate the water into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas utilizing electricity from the power source.
 4. The energy unit of claim 3, wherein the oxygen gas is directed out of the housing.
 5. The energy unit of claim 1, wherein the fluid chamber includes a bio fuel and the electrolysis element is configured to separate hydrogen gas from the bio fuel utilizing electricity from the power source.
 6. The energy unit of claim 1, wherein the hydrogen storage chamber further comprises: a cylindrical housing; a solenoid mounted on a first end of the cylindrical housing and configured to reciprocate at a desired frequency; a conical ram head attached to a free of the solenoid in the cylindrical housing and configured to reciprocate with the solenoid; and a metal hydride material positioned around the sides of the cylindrical housing, wherein the reciprocating motion of the solenoid and ram head drives hydrogen into the metal hydride material.
 7. The energy unit of claim 6, wherein the cylindrical housing further comprises an inlet connected to the electrolysis element and an outlet connected to the fuel cell.
 8. The energy unit of claim 7, further comprising: an inlet valve positioned in the inlet and selectively openable to allow hydrogen gas from the electrolysis unit into the cylindrical housing; and an outlet valve positioned at the outlet and selectively openable to allow hydrogen in the cylindrical housing to exit into the fuel cell.
 9. The energy unit of claim 1, further comprising: at least one protrusion extending from the housing; and at least one recess, formed in the housing, opposite the protrusion.
 10. The energy unit of claim 9, wherein the at least one protrusion is electrically connected to at least one of the fuel cell and the power source and is configured to supply or receive electricity to or from an external device.
 11. The energy unit of claim 10, wherein the protrusion is in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and is configured to provide or receive fluid to or from the external device.
 12. The energy unit of claim 11, wherein the external device is an energy unit in accordance with claim
 1. 13. The energy unit of claim 9, wherein the at least one recess is electrically connected to at least one of the fuel cell and the power source and is configured to supply or receive electricity to or from an external device.
 14. The energy unit of claim 13, wherein the recess is in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and is configured to provide or receive fluid to or from an external source.
 15. The energy unit of claim 14, wherein the external device is an energy unit in accordance with claim
 1. 16. An energy system comprising: a plurality of energy units; each energy unit comprising: a housing; a power source mounted in or on the housing and configured to provide electricity; a fluid chamber in the housing configured to hold a volume of fluid; an electrolysis element in the housing electrically connected to the power source and in fluid communication with the fluid chamber, the electrolysis chamber configured and operable to break the fluid down and to provide hydrogen gas; a hydrogen storage element in the housing connected to the electrolysis element and configured to store hydrogen in solid form; and a fuel cell in the housing, connected to the hydrogen storage element and operable to generate electricity using at least hydrogen supplied from the hydrogen storage element; wherein each energy unit is connected with at least one other energy unit such that multiple energy units operate together to provide electricity at a desired voltage or current.
 17. The energy system of claim 16, wherein each energy unit of the plurality of energy units further comprises: at least one protrusion extending from the housing; and at least one recess, formed in the housing, opposite the protrusion.
 18. The energy system of claim 17, wherein the at least one protrusion is electrically connected to at least one other energy unit of the plurality of fuel cells to supply or receive electricity.
 19. The energy system of claim 17, wherein the protrusion is in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and is configured to provide or receive fluid to or from from at least one other energy unit.
 20. The energy system of claim 16, wherein the at least one recess is electrically connected to at least one of the fuel cell and the power source and is configured to supply or receive electricity to or from at least one other energy unit.
 21. The energy system of claim 20, wherein the at least one recess is in fluid communication with the fluid chamber and is configured to provide or receive fluid to or from at least one other energy unit. 